Silversea Luxury Cruises A ST. THOMAS

If you fly to the 32-square-mile (83-square-km) island of St. Thomas, you land at its western end; if you arrive by cruise ship, you come into one of the world's most beautiful harbors. Either way, one of your first sights is the town of Charlotte Amalie. From the harbor you see an idyllic-looking village that spreads into the lower hills. If you were expecting a quiet hamlet with its inhabitants hanging out under palm trees, you've missed that era by about 300 years. View more

Although other islands in the USVI developed plantation economies, St. Thomas cultivated its harbor, and it became a thriving seaport soon after it was settled by the Danish in the 1600s. The success of the naturally perfect harbor was enhanced by the fact that the Danes—who ruled St. Thomas with only a couple of short interruptions from 1666 to 1917—avoided involvement in some 100 years' worth of European wars. Denmark was the only European country with colonies in the Caribbean to stay neutral during the War of the Spanish Succession in the early 1700s. Thus, products of the Dutch, English, and French islands—sugar, cotton, and indigo—were traded through Charlotte Amalie, along with the regular shipments of slaves. When the Spanish wars ended, trade fell off, but by the end of the 1700s Europe was at war again, Denmark again remained neutral, and St. Thomas continued to prosper. Even into the 1800s, while the economies of St. Croix and St. John foundered with the market for sugarcane, St. Thomas's economy remained vigorous. This prosperity led to the development of shipyards, a well-organized banking system, and a large merchant class. In 1845 Charlotte Amalie had 101 large importing houses owned by the English, French, Germans, Haitians, Spaniards, Americans, Sephardim, and Danes. Charlotte Amalie is still one of the world's most active cruise-ship ports. On almost any day at least one and sometimes as many as eight cruise ships are tied to the docks or anchored outside the harbor. Gently rocking in the shadows of these giant floating hotels are just about every other kind of vessel imaginable: sleek sailing catamarans that will take you on a sunset cruise complete with rum punch and a Jimmy Buffett soundtrack, private megayachts for billionaires, and barnacle-bottom sloops—with laundry draped over the lifelines—that are home to world-cruising gypsies. Huge container ships pull up in Sub Base, west of the harbor, bringing in everything from breakfast cereals to tires. Anchored right along the waterfront are down-island barges that ply the waters between the Greater Antilles and the Leeward Islands, transporting goods such as refrigerators, VCRs, and disposable diapers. The waterfront road through Charlotte Amalie was once part of the harbor. Before it was filled in to build the highway, the beach came right up to the back door of the warehouses that now line the thoroughfare. Two hundred years ago those warehouses were filled with indigo, tobacco, and cotton. Today the stone buildings house silk, crystal, and diamonds. Exotic fragrances are still traded, but by island beauty queens in air-conditioned perfume palaces instead of through open market stalls. The pirates of old used St. Thomas as a base from which to raid merchant ships of every nation, though they were particularly fond of the gold- and silver-laden treasure ships heading to Spain. Pirates are still around, but today's versions use St. Thomas as a drop-off for their contraband: illegal immigrants and drugs. To explore outside Charlotte Amalie, rent a car or hire a taxi. Your rental car should come with a good map; if not, pick up the pocket-size "St. Thomas–St. John Road Map" at a tourist information center. Roads are marked with route numbers, but they're confusing and seem to switch numbers suddenly. Roads are also identified by signs bearing the St. Thomas–St. John Hotel and Tourism Association's mascot, Tommy the Starfish. More than 100 of these color-coded signs line the island's main routes. Orange signs trace the route from the airport to Red Hook, green signs identify the road from town to Magens Bay, Tommy's face on a yellow background points from Mafolie to Crown Bay through the north side, red signs lead from Smith Bay to Four Corners via Skyline Drive, and blue signs mark the route from the cruise-ship dock at Havensight to Red Hook. These color-coded routes are not marked on most visitor maps, however. Allow yourself a day to explore, especially if you want to stop to take pictures or to enjoy a light bite or refreshing swim. Most gas stations are on the island's more populated eastern end, so fill up before heading to the north side. And remember to drive on the left!

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.

Excursiones en ST. THOMAS

Sit back and enjoy a relaxing half day sail to 'Ship Wreck Cove' Buck Island aboard a large 65-foot spacious, sailing catamaran, Castaway Girl, featuring a large shaded cockpit & huge fore-deck area for sunbathing.

After an exhilarating sail, the captain will drop anchor at magnificent Buck Island where there is ample time for snorkelling over a sunken shipwreck. Snorkelling is for both the experienced and novice alike. Our experienced crew will guide you through the waters & give expert instruction for first-timers.

Enjoy viewing at close range brilliant corals, colourful fish and maybe even a turtle or two - or perhaps you just want to soak up the sun after swimming.

Complimentary Sodas and Rum Punch will be served after snorkelling and on the relaxing sail back into beautiful harbour of Charlotte Amalie. The highlight of your cruise will be experiencing the thrill of sailing on the fabulous 65' Castaway Girl catamaran to Shipwreck Cove, Buck Island. The Castaway Girl is fast and very stable, having spacious sunbathing decks and a large comfortable cockpit for those of you preferring the shade, as you sail in the warm breezes and crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Spend time snorkelling and exploring beautiful coral reefs filled with tropical fish, sea animals and turtles. The wartime shipwreck of the Catanza C lies 25' below the surface and is home to a wide variety of sea life. The friendly, experienced crew and instructors will provide all of the assistance that you need, as they snorkel with you, pointing out the wonderous sights to be seen below. Enjoy complimentary tropical fruit punch drinks, our famous Castaway Girl Painkiller Punch, along with other refreshments and snacks as you listen to some great music on your relaxing homeward sail back to your ship.

Please note: This tour is recommended for guests in good physical condition, and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing a swimsuit under a cover-up, sun protection and bring a towel from the ship. Alternate snorkel sight may be used based on weather conditions. Snorkel equipment is included and the wearing of the flotation vest is mandatory. Alcoholic beverages are available after the snorkelling activities have concluded. Guests must be 18 years of age or older to consume alcohol on this tour.

Depart the pier via catamaran, receive your safety briefing and snorkelling equipment, and begin the approximately 45-minute sail to Turtle Bay. Upon arrival at Turtle Bay, proceed to Christmas Cove and anchor just offshore for a guided snorkelling session in the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, swim with the sea turtles and other marine life, and marvel at the colourful coral and tropical fish.

Water Island, Honeymoon Beach, Snorkelling, and a Caribbean Lunch

Next, sail on to Water Island. Upon arrival, some free time for sunbathing and relaxing on idyllic Honeymoon Beach, and/or swimming and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters just off the beach. Enjoy a freshly-prepared Caribbean barbecue lunch served on the beach. After lunch, enjoy the approximately 30-minute sail back to the pier, with refreshing rum drinks served en route.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, at times over uneven and sandy surfaces, with five steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the catamaran and ten steps to manoeuvre in/out of the catamaran. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and can swim. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and change of clothing from the ship. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour. Snorkelling equipment is provided. Waterproof cameras are highly recommended. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, fish and marine life sightings are not guaranteed. Guests must weigh less than 350 pounds (about 159 kilograms) to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests may not snorkel if they have consumed alcohol. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Enjoy a unique kayaking tour and eco-experience during this visit to St. Thomas' Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Refuge and Marine Sanctuary.

A scenic safari bus ride along the south side of St. Thomas brings you to the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Refuge & Marie Sanctuary where a truly unique experience awaits you and your family. Kayak past many small islands of the mangrove lagoon.

Hike through a mangrove forest; along a scenic beach of coral & shell rubble with views overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Buck Island & French Cap in the distance. There are tidal pools, breathtaking volcanic cliffs and the impressive Red Point geologic Blow Hole. Enjoy the excitement of a hermit crab race.

Snorkel in the clear protected waters of the coral-fringed mangrove lagoon and view a remnant of a shipwreck teeming with colorful marine life. Try and spot shy turtles, stingrays, starfish, conch, puffer fish, tropical birds and lizards in their natural habitat. Watch for rays & barracudas on your return paddle. This is a beginner snorkel and no experience is necessary.

Please note: This tour is recommended for guests in good physical condition, and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing a swimsuit under a cover-up, sun protection, water shoes and bring a towel from the ship. Participants must be at least 4 years of age, weigh no more than 275 lbs (125 kilograms) and must be able to get in and out of kayaks unassisted. Snorkel equipment, a snack and beverage is included.

Depart the pier by open-air safari bus for the short drive along Skyline Drive, the mile-long elevated scenic artery of St. Thomas with the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea flanking both sides. A brief photo stop is made at the Skyline Overlook, which offers exquisite views overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbour, the downtown area, your ship and neighbouring islands.

Next, re-board your transportation and head for a photo stop at Drake's Seat, which overlooks Magen's Bay and the downtown area. Leaving Drake's Seat, continue along the north side of the island to the Mountain Top. At more than 1,000 feet (about 305 metres) above the Caribbean Sea, the Mountain Top is the highest elevation on the island. Its vibrant, pirate-themed décor and Caribbean music create a festive atmosphere for your visit.

Upon arrival at the Mountain Top, proceed to its large Observation Deck for stunning panoramic vistas overlooking Tortola, Hans Lollick, Jost Van Dyke, Tobago, Magen's Bay, St. John, and more than 15 other Virgin Islands and cays. Afterward, some free time is made available to browse the quaint, Caribbean-style shops selling local art and wares, or perhaps try one of the Mountain Top's 'world-famous' banana daiquiris at your own expense. At the conclusion of your visit, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, and at the Mountain Top to access the observation deck. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible, and not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness and guests with a fear of heights. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must weigh less than 300 pounds (about 136 kilograms) to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The driver act as a guide and provides commentary during the ride through a speaker system. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Depart the pier via open-air 'Safari Bus' for the short drive to the east end of St. Thomas, and a visit to Smith Bay Park, a pristine, approximately 21-acre (about-8.5 hectare) beachfront eco-reserve. Upon arrival, you are escorted to your reserved beach lounge at Secret Sands Beach, an idyllic tropical paradise offering amazing views of St. John, Tortola and the British Virgin Islands in the distance.

Secret Sands Beach Visit

During your visit, you can kick back, relax and unwind with a good book, sunbathe, swim in the inviting blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, and/or stroll about the white-sand beach and admire the rustic lagoon setting of this eco-reserve. Picnic tables and natural shade are available throughout this unspoiled hidden gem of a beach, which is bordered by natural coconut groves and sea grape trees on each end. Your relaxing visit includes complimentary beach loungers, 'noodle floats', water, sodas, and rum punch.

Skyline Drive, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Neighbouring Islands

Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier. En route, drive along via Skyline Drive, the mile-long elevated scenic artery of St. Thomas with the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea flanking both sides, and take in breath-taking views overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbour, the downtown area, your ship and neighbouring islands.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, at times over uneven and sandy surfaces. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and can swim. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and change of clothing from the ship. Guests must weigh less than 300 pounds (about 136 kilograms) to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

NEW YORK

ROAD TOWN

SAN JUAN

ST. JOHN'S

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.